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5 Simple Phrases to Help You Survive Your First Japanese Lesson
Learning Tips

5 Simple Phrases to Help You Survive Your First Japanese Lesson


Aug 23, 2026    |    0

Starting your first Japanese lesson can feel a bit overwhelming, but you don't need to know hundreds of words to have a good session.

Instead of trying to memorise long grammar rules, focusing on a few practical phrases will help you manage the conversation with confidence.

 

Here are five essential phrases every beginner should know for their first lesson.

 

  1. "Mou ichido onegai shimasu" (Could you say that again, please?)

If your teacher says something too fast, don't worry about understanding every word.
Using this phrase lets your teacher know that you need them to repeat what they just said.

 

  1. "Chotto matte kudasai" (Just a moment, please.)

When you need a few seconds to look up a word or think about your answer, this phrase gives you time to respond without feeling rushed.
It is a polite way to pause the conversation naturally while you collect your thoughts.

 

  1. "___ wa nan desu ka?" (What is ___?)

When your teacher uses a new word that you don't know, this phrase is extremely helpful.
It lets you ask about the word directly, so you can keep learning without breaking the flow of the lesson.

 

  1. "Wakarimashita" / "Wakarimasen" (I understand / I don't understand)

Clear feedback helps your teacher adjust their speaking speed and teaching style to match your needs.
Simply saying whether you understand or not keeps the lesson moving at a comfortable pace for you.

 

  1. "Arigatou gozaimashita" (Thank you very much)

At the end of your lesson, using this phrase is the standard way to express your appreciation for the session.
It shows respect for your teacher's time and finishes your lesson on a positive note.

 

Learning a language is a step-by-step process, and having these practical phrases ready will make your first lesson much easier.

 

Ready to test these phrases in a real conversation?

Many teachers on SuikaTalk offer free trial lessons, so you can easily try your first class without any pressure.

Find a teacher today and take your first step into learning Japanese!